Deflux implant procedure

What is a Deflux implant procedure?

Deflux is a sterile, biodegradable gel used to treat vesicoureteral reflux (VUR). The Deflux implant is injected into the bladder wall where the ureter enters the bladder, forming a bulge at the opening. The bulge reduces the size of the opening, to prevent urine from flowing backwards into the ureter. The opening is still flexible so urine can flow into the bladder, as it should. Deflux is gradually replaced by the body's own tissue, so the bulge remains.

General anesthesia is given. Then the surgeon inserts a cystoscope, a thin viewing device, into the bladder through the urethra (where the urine comes out), and injects the Deflux. The procedure usually takes less than 30 minutes.

What can I expect afterwards?

The urethra and bladder will be irritated for 24 to 48 hours. As a result, your child may:

• hesitate to urinate
• urinate often
• feel stinging or soreness when trying to urinate
• have pink-tinged urine
• not be able to hold the urine
• wet the bed for a few days

Bladder spasms can occur, caused by the stretching or probing of the bladder. Bladder spasms, like muscle spasms, can be uncomfortable. They may feel like a cramp, or like an urge to urinate, but then only a small dribble or no urine at all comes out. They come and go often, usually last less than a minute, and should decrease within 24 hours.

How do I care for my child?

After surgery, your child will feel a little confused or dizzy from the anesthesia. This will go away quickly. For the day of the procedure, encourage rest. The next day, normal activities are fine.

Encourage plenty of fluids, Popsicles®, soup, and Jell-O® to stimulate urination.

Your child may soak in a tub of plain warm water to decrease pain. Encourage your child to urinate ("pee") in the water.

To prevent infections, your child will need to take antibiotics for about 3 months, or until there is less reflux.

When should I call the doctor?

• no urinating in 8 to 10 hours
• painful urination after 48 hours
• refusing to urinate
• pain in the abdomen (belly)
• fever higher than 101.5° F (38.6° C)
• bladder spasms that become worse and do not decrease within 24 hours

Questions?

This sheet is not specific to your child, but provides general information. For more information, go to the Deflux Website. If you have any questions, please call the surgeon.

Children's Hospitals and Clinics of Minnesota
Patient/Family Education
2525 Chicago Avenue South
Minneapolis, MN 55404
Last reviewed 8/2015 ©Copyright

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